Driving under the influence of alcohol in Montana carries significant penalties due to the danger you can cause for yourself and other motorists on the road. Facing charges of DUI can impact your driving privileges, your career and your freedom.
Knowing the consequences of DUI can help you prepare for your next steps. With adequate help and a personal commitment to avoid reoffending, you can overcome the challenges and put your DUI behind you.
Compromised privileges and opportunities
Depending on the nature of your charges, you could lose your driving privileges for30 days up to a year. Courts assess factors including your BAC level, the details of your situation, whether or not your behavior hurt other people, if you had passengers and if this is your first time driving under the influence.
If you drive a commercial vehicle for a living, you will temporarily lose your CDL license which could impact your job. Your insurance may increase substantially. According to the Montana Department of Transportation, you may also have travel restrictions imposed.
Legal fees and jail time
If your actions resulted in another person’s injury or death, the courts may order you to pay restitution to the victim and their family. You may also need to pay fees to have your driving privileges reinstated. If the courts recommend an ignition interlock device, you will need to budget the monthly cost for that as well.
Depending on your circumstances, you may serve time behind bars for as little as one day or as long as one or more years. You can use this time to participate in rehabilitation programs and to learn more about how to prevent DUI again. Your resolve to improve your life and take responsibility for your actions can make a big difference in the trajectory of your future.
